#ZentasticXmas Asus Zenfone 5LTE Review

The chance to review a brand new phone doesn't come up very often and so when I agreed to review an Android phone, I was some what setting myself the challenge of getting to grips with Android Software. I am a self-confessed Apple Geek and have always firmly steered clear of anything containing Android software as I have previously found it hard to get to grips with. To be completely sexist, it does seem that in many households I know of (mine included) the boys covet their Android devices, whilst the girls geek out over their apple devices.

I was sent the Asus Zenfone 5 LTE to review, with the brief of focusing on the set up and overall functionality of the phone, along with a Christmassy spin by focusing on the camera's low-light mode which is perfect for taking pictures of all of the wonderful Christmas Lights adorning our homes at the moment. The Asus Zenfone 5 LTE is one of the first 4G Lte Smart Phones of its kind. Here are some of my thoughts on the phone.

Sim and Battery Life
One for the bug bears with my current phone is how quickly it runs out of battery. I charged the Zen phone up and didn't have to charge it again for almost two days. This is longer than most other phones I have owned. There is also a smart saver mode on the Zenphone, which offers three options for battery charging. This enables your battery to stay alive for longer. The phone takes a Micro Sim as do many other smart phones, and so I was easily able to transfer the Sim from my own phone to this one.

Appearance
The Asus Zenfone 5 Lte is labelled as a "budget" smart phone. However, the handset has the look and feel of it's more expensive competitors. The overall look is very sleek and professional, although I have to say that the phone does not have much grip, but this could be rectified with a case of some kind. The bezel metal buttons on the side are not something you would expect to see on a handset costing around £200. These make a great addition to the phone and are a nice touch which add to the overall appearance. One downside might be that the physical buttons on the Zenfone 5 Lte appear at the bottom of the screen and actually bump up the overall size of the phone, whereas on other more expensive Asus models, the buttons are built into the software as part of the screen - allowing for a slightly bigger screen and a slightly smaller phone overall. However, given the budget price, you can't have everything, and for me, this did not detract from the appearance of the handset.

Set-Up
For someone who has never used an android phone before, I was surprised at how fantastically simple and easy the initial set up was. The phone has a basic wizard which links straight into your google account, bringing across all of the settings from existing applications. One consideration to be aware of though - when the phone was set up, there were several system updates which needed to be done, both on the Asus side and also the google side, which wasn't necessarily immediately obvious, and so this took a little bit of time. The phone was very simple to get to grips with and use quite quickly. I wouldn't say I am overly techie when it comes to phones, and so the fact it was so simple to use is testament to Asus, that unlike other phones, you don't need a degree in computer science to set up the phone, and it really is accessible to everyone.





The Software
The Zenfone is running Android software, but Asus have added their own layer of software which governs how the screen is presented, Unlike Iphone, each manufacturer adds their own layer of user interface. The Asus version is known as "Asus Touch". One of the features of Asus Touch is the "What's Next" feature. This feature gives a quick referencing timeline which instantly shows appointments, to do's and any other important events you want to set up like birthdays or reminders. As a busy Mum and someone who works for myself, I absolutely love this feature as it means that I can add everything that needs to be remembered in one place. I will definitely be utilising this feature of the phone.

Asus have cleverly set their software to be separate from google's software in the default view. There is a folder of Asus Software and a folder of Google software, making it easier for the user to separate which application they would like to use. Some Android phones don't offer this function, and so it is a valuable one to have as it can become a bit confusing deciding between some applications which might do the same thing.

We tested the Zenfone for functionality, and here is what our testing software came up with:
CPU - Good, supports large apps and multi -tasking
RAM - Excellent,
2D Graphics - Good
3D Graphics Good
Fluently supports most games. However, the processor is only 1.2ghz, and so it's performance in gaming may not be up to parr with more expensive models.

The Screen
The screen, whilst only displaying 720p rather than 1080p is very good quality. The image quality is fantastic. The text quality on screen is also sharp and readable - which is good for a five inch screen of this size for the price. Although other phones of this size have higher resolution displays, like the LGG2, and Sony Experia Z2  this handset is around half the price of other phones and can easily compete with screen quality. The screen is also very responsive for touch gestures and it did what I asked of it, without diverting to other applications.

Visual and Audio Quality
The quality of video streaming is very good. I tested Netflix, Youtube and BBC IPlayer and was able to get a great picture from all of them. Audio quality on video is very loud without being distorted. However, the speaker is on the back of the unit, and so you need to make sure you don't cover up the speaker whilst holding it, or the sound quality is compromised.

The actual phone call quality was as good as you would expect from a modern phone, although this seems to be less of a concern to people these days, versus other aspects such as camera functionality and internet usage.

Functionality
I have to admit that as I have quite large hands, I did find it a little hard to type due to the small size of the letter keys. I also found typing with the default keyboard a little tricky, as the keyboard did not understand some more specialist words I was hoping to use. However, this lack of keyboard functionality can be rectified by downloading a different keyboard from the Google Play store such as "Swift Key" where you can change the size of the keys.

In terms of the applications, youngest loved the "Ok google" mode which is quite simple to use on an Android device She soon started asking Google questions, which included how long until Santa comes!! I was very surprised that I found it so easy to get to grips with where everything was and how everything worked. I can see myself becoming an android convert potentially!

Camera Features:

• A500KL has two built-in cameras
• Main 8-megapixel PixelMaster camera for professional-looking photos.
• Backside-illumination (BSI) sensor and wide-aperture f/2.0, 5-element lens 
• Exclusive ASUS PixelMaster technology to capture images that are on par with most standalone digital cameras.
• 2-megapixel front camera comes with an f/2.8 lens. 
• PixelMaster technology improves camera performance 
• Features like Selfie and Low-light modes

Camera Modes
As an avid instagrammer, I only ever use my phone for taking pictures. I don't seem to have the patience for a DSLR camera, and so the way my camera phone operates, and the quality and variety of images it can offer really matters to me.

The 8mp camera on the Zenfone 5LTE is backed up with a very ambitious camera software, which may partly be more suited to a higher spec camera, but which also works well on the some of the modes. I got some really good photos from the camera, but there was varying degrees of success depending on the subject and the camera mode. Some of the modes worked brilliantly, and others left the image a little blurry.

As part of my review, I was asked to focus on the Low-Light Camera mode of the Asus Zenfone Lte. With so many lovely Christmas lights around at the moment, this was the perfect opportunity to take some truly christmassy pics. The Low Light mode which I was focusing on works really well, and is a real strength of the camera. Without the right lighting conditions, camera phones can be a bit hit and miss in low light, and so it is a real selling point that this mode produces great results.

Take a look at these pictures all taken in low-light mode - they definitely show the capabilities of the low lighting mode.

Aswell as the low lighting mode, we also loved the "Time Rewind" camera feature. This is a lifesaver for parents with children like mine who can't keep still to get a decent image. The minute I point a camera at them, they start jumping around and make the picture blurry. Time Rewind Mode takes three seconds worth of photos, and then allows you to swipe back though them, locate the best picture and save that one - great for trying to get that all important shot with the kids.

Hubby, as a long time Android user was surprised that the camera features on the phone were so robust - much more functional than his more expensive android handset. He was especially impressed with the panorama view, the selfie mode using facial recognition, the low light mode, the time rewind mode and depth of field modes. There is even a mode for making gif animations - none of these feature on his phone. He is in fact quite jealous of my new phone and the functionality which the camera has!!


Added Extras
Glove Mode! It has glove mode!! Another bug bear of mine with my current phone with this cold weather at the moment, gloves are a must, and so the fact that you can use your phone with gloves is absolutely amazing. I will definitely be holding onto this handset throughout the winter if I can use my gloves with it!


This Smartphone would make a fantastic Christmas gift, for adults and older kids alike. It is a really good all-round smart phone at a low price. You are getting all of the features of a £400 handset, (with some technical downgrades) to allow for a cheaper price. The phone retails at around £199.99. My impressions are that the Asus Zenfone 5 Lte it is a brilliant phone with some great features for a very reasonable price. I love the camera mode, I love the glove mode, and I also love the look and feel of the camera. Although not as technologically loaded as other phones, this phone definitely gets a thumbs up in my book!!

Disclosure: Zenfone offered in consideration for review. 

Get Santa Film Review

Recently, the girls and I were invited to the preview of "Get Santa" in London. There were plenty of activities to get them in the Christmas spirit before the film including face painting, stocking decorating and letter writing to Santa - the girls were in Christmas heaven!

I meanwhile was more concerned with the film. I love a good Christmas film. I look forward to the time of year when I can start indulging in Christmas Films and watching them back-to-back.

Enter "Get Santa". Get Santa, directed by Chris Smith, stars Jim Broadbent as Santa, and Rafe Spall, Jodie Whitaker, Kit Connor, Warwick Davis, Joanna Scanlon and Nonso Anozie amongst others.

Described by Chris Smith as "a fantasy with a subtext", Get Santa is a family adventure film about how nine year old Tom (Kit Connor) reconnects with his ex-con Dad Steve (Rafe Spall). Tom has to convince Steve that Santa has crash landed in London, days before Christmas, and needs their help to get back to Lapland in time for Christmas Eve. Meanwhile Santa is looking for his reindeer and sleigh which he has lost around the city and ends up in a sticky situation behind bars.Only Steve and Tom can help him now!

We loved "Get Santa". I thought that the film was well pitched to the kids. My seven year old loved it, although the five year old did get a bit fidgety, so I think slightly older children would enjoy the film more. The film was a really original and different twist on a Christmas story, The seven year old described it as "kind of like harry potter, and kind of like home alone, with a bit of Elf thrown in too".

Jim Broadbent makes a fantastic Father Christmas and I can't think of another actor who would be better suited. This is a terrific film for both adults and kids to watch. I would definitely recommend a trip to the cinema to see this film as it will help get everyone in the Christmas spirit. 

Released by Warner Bros, Get Santa is now widely available to watch in cinemas across the UK. Go and see it - It's ace!!

Disclosure: Free Tickets to the preview offered in consideration for review

Star Wars Mad!

Today I am sharing a video of Hubby watching the new Star Wars Trailer. He is a huge Star Wars fan and has been ever since he was a child. He is  still like an excited child when it comes to anything Star Wars related and he absolutely can't wait for the new film!!

Remember Remember Family Fun in November!

Well It's been rather a busy month! Here's what we have been doing so far with our November:

Despite the rain, we enjoyed a very wet bonfire night. We went to the local display in Watford with Nanny and the display was very impressive as always with lots of big bangs! The girls thoroughly enjoyed themselves!!

We are English Heritage Members and so have loved using our membership this year to visit Wrest Park in Beds. Wrest Park is beautiful in all seasons, but I especially loved the autumnal colour of the trees during this visit. I also took some lovely pictures of youngest and Daddy, despite her having a tantrum on the long walk around the gardens!

 Hubby took me to see the Poppies on my Birthday which was on Remembrance Day. We arrived for 11am when the last post was played, and so it was a very special poignant moment to be part of history celebrating one hundred years since the start of World War One, and remembering all those who have fallen in the line of duty. We then enjoyed a day in London where we walked up the South Bank, and saw the Shard and Houses of Parliament. We also visited the German Christmas Market and ate at a lovely Pizza place, so it was a lovely birthday. I then took the kids back to visit Hamleys in London at the weekend and to attend the premiere of "Get Santa", which I will be telling you all about soon!

So there you go - a little update of how our November has been so far!!

Silent Sunday 2/11/14

#QHotelsFamilyAmbassador Competition

Recently I entered the QHotels Family Ambassador Competition, and was shortlisted. You can see our entry here . The girls were the first of the competition applicants to make videos, and others followed suit after seeing our videos on how the girls would revamp the Quackers Packs.

It would be great to win, and get the chance to help improve the Quackers Pack, and improve a stay at a QHotel for families. 

We would LOVE a vote to help us to win if you would be willing. Just click on the badge below, and search Clare Rudd. 

If you also want to tweet "I just voted for @justdoitmummy (Clare Rudd) in the QHotelsFamilyAmbassador Competition - You can too http://www.qhotels.co.uk/family-ambassador/" it would be much appreciated 

Thanks so much!!

Microsoft and Dept for Education Event - New Computing Curriculum for Parents

This year, a new curriculum has been introduced in schools across the UK. Along with that comes a computing curriculum, which aims to prepare kids more practically and creatively for the world of technology. I was invited to Microsoft Headquarters by the Department of Education to find out how parents can support kids with the new computing curriculum.

I would say that hubby and I are quite computer literate, and would be able to help our kids with any IT homework, however, many parents may not be quite so able to help kids learn what they need to. I have to admit, that even someone as computer literate as myself does get lost when I hear my daughter start talking about Minecraft and the "worlds" she has built.

At Microsoft, we were given an introduction to various people working within the IT industry, to explain how parents could help support their kids with discovering technology.

First we heard from Simon Humphreys, National Coordinator, Computing at School (CAS), who spoke to us about how Computing in the curriculum has changed. At school, I remember the extent of our computer GCSE learning how to make a database - something I have never done since, and something which I was terrible at! I don't remember it really preparing me for the world of technology in terms of the world wide web which was just becoming main stream as I left school.

I loved the way that Simon described technology as no longer being "just for geeks". These days, everyone carries various mini computers around - phones, tablets, laptops, even credit cards are all essentially a mini computer, and so it's essential that we have a basic understanding of how these things work.

Next we heard from Lisa Percy, Executive Producer, BBC BiteSize, who spoke about what help there is for parents in supporting kids through the new computing curriculum. BBC Bitesize have begun a coding push, which starts right from the youngest age, and goes all the way through, with age appropriate content aimed to support the National Curriculum. There is some great stuff on the Bitesize website which is really accessible for parents and kids.

We then heard from Hugh Milward, Corporate Affairs Director, Microsoft UK, who spoke to us about why the new curriculum was so important for the continuation of UK Industry. Did you know that Japan is leading the way with educating Computer Engineers? Microsoft hopes that the new curriculum will help create more specialists from the UK. I think that the UK definitely needs to up our game when it comes to being a leader in technology.

Next, came Dr Bill Mitchell - Director, BCS, The Chartered Institute for IT, who spoke to us about Computing without computers – Fun ways to teach computing, without computers. I thought that this was really interesting, that children can learn about Algorithms, without even touching a computer, as the slides below show!

Following this, we heard about the coding programme "Kodu", and got to have a go at building our own computer game using "Kodu". It was a really interesting insight into the world of coding, and it definitely made me feel more confident helping the kids with coding and computing. I could see my kids getting really into Kodu, and probably even taking over and getting on with it themselves, rather than me trying to "teach" them how to do it. Kids these days just seem to be able to pick up technology and use it, and sometimes even better than the adults!

Here are some great links to help your kids with Computing:

BBC Bitesize 

Kodu

Code Club

Reasons to Love Autumn

Today I am reminded of all the reasons why I love Autumn, which is my favourite time of year. I took this picture of a tree nearby, which just reminds me of how absolutely beautiful Autumn really is. These trees, are the kind of trees which really do reflect the seasons well. They display the starkness of Winter, the blossoms of Spring, the rich green leaves of Summer, and of course, the glorious reds of Autumn. My kids call them the "fire trees". I think they definitely live up to their name! They get redder and redder throughout Autumn, before shedding their leaves for Winter.  Autumn is always typically one of my favourite times of year. There is so much fun stuff which happens in Autumn and which is leading up to Christmas. 

Reasons I love Autumn:

• Red Leaves - The trees look so beautiful this time of year. I love the reds, yellows and browns which decorate the leaves. 
• Dark Nights - I love the dark nights, when you just want to get inside out of the cold as soon as possible. I love the warm glow emanating from houses and the twinkly lights which appear as Christmas approaches.
• Crisp Autumn Days - Sunny, with a crisp bite, and not too hot for a long walk.
• Chilly Mornings - Reaching for your dressing gown and slippers as you wake.
• Boots!! I get to resurrect my lovely Brown Boots from the Wardrobe
• Bonfire Night - A great British tradition, I love Bonfire Night, Fireworks, Jacket Potatoes, Baked Beans, Sausages and Sparklers - it reminds me of my childhood!
• My Birthday. I am an Autumn Baby, which I think contributes to my love of the season
• The run-up to Christmas - I am a huge Christmas fan, and just love the run up to Christmas. I've already started the shopping!
• Autumn TV - Strictly, X Factor, Downton!, Gogglebox, Greys Anatomy, and lots more fantastic TV Programmes - what's not too love? I do love a good night in snuggled up in a blanket watching TV!
• Log Fires - I am aiming for our forever house to have a Log Fire, but until then, I have a favourite pub with a wonderful fire which makes a good substitute.
• Delicious Flavours in Season - Butternut, Pumpkin, Warm Stews, Hearty Shepherds Pie, Apple Crumble. I swear these all taste better in Autumn!
• Hot Drinks - Earl Grey, Pumpkin Spiced Latte, Mulled Wine, Hot Apple Cider - all great Autumn tipples!

Can you add any other reasons to love Autumn?

Mythical Maze Summer Reading Challenge

This week the girls collected their medals and certificates for participating in the "Mythical Maze" Summer Reading Challenge with our local library. Although summer now seems very far away, it has taken a few weeks for them to get through presenting the three hundred odd children with certificates who completed the summer reading challenge and my two were one of the last groups of children to receive theirs. The girls took part in the challenge last year too, which was "Creepy House" and had stinky stickers to collect (which were so vile!!)

Did you know that regular reading is one of the most important factors in predicting how well children do at school - regardless of their background or demographics? I find that pretty staggering, that just by reading, your children are statistically more likely to do well at school academically. To take your child to the library, or read to them or with them is such a simple thing to do.

This year, to successfully complete the challenge, the girls had to read six books over the summer, and then talk about them at the library with one of the staff or volunteers. I think this is a great idea as it gave them something to focus on, and also meant that we had a reason to visit the library and spend time choosing some quality books which they would have fun reading.

The girls very much enjoyed the summer reading challenge. They couldn't wait to get to the library to talk about their books and change them. They were very proud to come to the library to collect their certificates and medals last week. The library trips are something we shall keep up, and they can't wait for the challenge next year!

Did your kids take part in the summer reading challenge this year?

Back to School

So this week is back to school and back to reality with a bump! 

We spent a lovely week on the island of Rhodes last week (post and pictures to follow) soaking up the sun, and swimming in the pool every day. The kids had a fantastic time. The highlight for me was not having to do any cooking for the whole week - bliss!!

Leaving a holiday until the last week of Summer is great in theory as you have something to look forward to, and it is typically a quieter time to travel. However, it also means that as soon as the holiday finishes, you are straight back into the swing of things.

We arrived back in the early hours of the morning to a dark and freezing cold England, and then had a couple of days at home before school started. Eldest started in Year Three - Juniors for her, and youngest in Year One, leaving Reception and the early years behind. I'm sure that this school year will bring a fresh set of challenges and highs and lows.

Having the girls back at school has been lovely as they were ready to go back and see their friends, and I was ready to get back to working properly in the daytime. The house has seemed a little quieter and less chaotic this week! However, it is also bitter sweet as we had such a lovely summer together doing lots of fun things, and now, I lose them back to school five days a week, and the weekly Mum's Taxi Service starts up again. I don't know if anyone else finds this - but it's the Taxi Service to After School Clubs I find more stressful than anything else.

Roll on the Christmas holidays. I already can't wait!!

Kids Week Theatre - Wicked, The Tiger who came to Tea & Hairspray

This summer we have been to the theatre three times to see different productions, thanks in the main part to "Kids Week" - the summer extravaganza where kids go free to top London shows. Here is a review of what we went to see. 

Wicked

A trip to see the West End version of Wicked at the start of the summer was a big treat for the whole family as Hubby, the girls and I ventured into London on a Friday night to watch the green witch do her thing. Eldest and I had been wanting to see Wicked for a long time, and so the option of free kids tickets was too good to pass up. Wicked is the story of how the Wicked Witch of the West turned "Wicked" (if you believe the hype). We had brilliant seats about two thirds of the way back in the stalls. The view was great, with or without the binoculars. Eldest as always sat mesmerised. She knows all of the songs from watching them on you tube, but it was good to see the musical in it's entirety as she didn't know the whole story with all it's twists and turns. Youngest (5) did start to get a bit restless towards the end of the first act, but still enjoyed it very much.  They should have perhaps advertised that this was a kids week show, as there were a few whispers of disgruntlement from some about how many kids were there, and youngest actually got told to "shush" at one point when she was singing along to the Emerald City song she had learnt at school. 

The highlight of the first act was "defying gravity" where the witch flies, which actually took my breath away. Emma Hatton played Elphaba and Sophie Linder Lee played Glinda. Both actresses were understudies for the roles as the main artists were in a change-over period. I was really impressed with their performances. Sometimes major names don't always live up to the hype. These two were a refreshing surprise and played their roles perfectly. Having watched Idina and Kristin as Elphaba and Glinda so much in the original Broadway version, these two were a close second to the chemistry they shared. Their performances really added to the evening. 

The interval was a welcome chance to have a wander round, and also for the girls to go and visit the music pit. They loved learning about where the conductor stood and youngest couldn't believe that there were people under the stage playing the music rather than just a stereo playing. It was a great chance to show them how the theatre works, as they both love music, dancing and singing. Perhaps one day they will be on the stage!

The second act was equally as fantastic. We were so impressed. We loved everything - the cast, the singing, the staging and the costumes. Everything was wonderful, and we had a great evening out. The theatre is located right outside Victoria Station, so quite easy to get to from Kings Cross and Euston.  We found it easy to get there, get in and find our seats. The only down side was the queue for the women's toilets! Perhaps one of the men's needs to be reallocated in the theatre! As expected, drinks and snacks were quite expensive in the theatre, as to be expected in London, but you could take your own if you wanted. 

Kids Week is such a great idea as to pay the best part of two hundred and fifty pounds at least for four top priced tickets to Wicked plus travel and food on top is a bit of a stretch for the average family, but kids week makes this more affordable. It also opens up theatre to the kids, and inspires the nest generation to aspire to be on the stage. My two are very theatrical anyway. Eldest is desperate to see Matilda, and so I think we will save up to see that perhaps at some point after Christmas!

The Tiger who came to Tea

We also booked Kids Week tickets for "The Tiger who came to Tea" as a birthday treat for youngest who turned five this month. I have to say that I wasn't holding my breath, as I thought that a kids theatre show wouldn't be my cup of tea. However, I was really impressed with the show. There are three actors who carry the show "Sophie", "Mummy" and "Daddy" (who also moonlights as the milkman/postman and other characters). Then there is the tiger too. The characters interacted really well with each other, and also with the audience, getting them up and getting them involved. The kids absolutely loved it. Youngest was enthralled and really enjoyed joining in with the actions. It was only about an hour, and I did think the kids could have put up with a bit longer, because just as we got started, it finished, but it was a brilliant production nevertheless, and the tiger was definitely the highlight as the costume was so realistic! We also loved how the set kept changing and was able to transform without moving - very magical for little ones! I would definitely recommend a visit!

Hairspray

In addition to Kids Week, Eldest and I took advantage of a week-long run of an in-house production of Hairspray the Broadway Musical at the Gordon Craig Theatre in Stevenage. I was a bit concerned as to whether the quality would live up to the west-end versions, but with a professional company of actors, I was happily placated. The production was absolutely fantastic. Whilst clearly the set was not up there with a west-end budget, the quality of the performances from the company was brilliant. Particular favourites were Daniel Page who starred as Edna and Fran Fenech who played Tracy. Another brilliant mention goes to Mark Jardine who played Wilbur, His chemistry with Edna was fantastic. Eldest was transfixed, and she literally sang the soundtrack to Hairspray for a week after. It really captured her imagination as it was such a fantastic production. This has inspired me to support local theatre more often!

Review - Audley End House and Gardens

Well we''ve had quite a busy summer! Now we are back with a bump to reality, I will be sharing some of the stuff that we have done over the summer, which will hopefully be of interest to you!

We have English Heritage membership and so took some time out over the summer to visit Audley End House and Gardens in Saffron Walden, Essex. There is lots to see and do for the adults, including impressive gardens and a wonderful Mansion House which is fantastically preserved as it was in years past. There are family living quarters, servant quarters, and a working kitchen all on display, with lots of interactivity and clues into how houses functioned in their grand heyday.  There were volunteers dressed up as characters who suggested that eldest could "get a job as a kitchen maid if she worked hard enough". It really bought history to life for the kids. Speaking of the kids, they got to dress up and play in the upstairs nursery, and go to the stables to dress up and see the horses which live there.

The kids loved it, so did we, and we will definitely be making a return visit! There is definitely plenty to do and you could spend the whole day there. We took a picnic and sat in the impressive gardens. We also managed to catch the Paul Weller sound check which was fantastic, as the house let's out it's grounds for events. We are slowly working our way around local English heritage sites. We have visited Wrest Park, Kenilworth Castle and a couple of others. It is a great way to see historic sites and with such a low yearly fee, we have found it to be a fantastic investment!

We finished our day with a trip to McDonalds nearby for tea, and a peek at Duxford Museum as we drove past on the way home. What a great day!!

"Friends for Life V Knitted Vaginas" - Richard Godwin's Vitriolic Article

Note: All views are my own personal opinions, and not those of any organisations which I represent. 

As an Antenatal Teacher and Doula, I am proud that I get to support people on their journey through childbirth and into parenthood. Over the last year, I have probably supported around 150 women and couples on their journey, and met around 150 new babies, either a few weeks after their birth, or some, immediately after birth when I have had the privilege of sharing their birth experience with them.

So, having studied for so many years to become an Antenatal Teacher with the National Childbirth Trust, spent many hours facilitating NCT courses, witnessing births, talking to women about their experiences, and sharing views with health professionals on maternity services, I like to think that I know a fair amount about having babies and being a new parent.

However, I happen to do quite a bit of work for the National Childbirth Trust, which I know conjures up negative images for some. Many people have NCT Practitioner's all lumped in the same boat, as people who know nothing about birth, rave about breastfeeding, and knit our own yoghurt (how does one knit their own yoghurt anyway??)

Well, those who know me, will know that I am probably one of the least "woo woo" people going. In my classes, I deal in facts, research and most importantly choice for women, support for partner's and confidence for parenting. Most of those who attend my classes review them in a positive light (hey, you can't please everyone) and 99% of my own class attendees report back that I give them unbiased, honest and realistic information. That's why I get so annoyed when I read negative reviews of NCT classes, which assume that all NCT teacher's are the same. I also get annoyed when I read articles in the press which seek to threaten the livelihood of NCT practitioner's based on a historic preconception of the NCT, and the writer's own biases and experiences. You may well be aware how I blogged a response when Kirsty Allsopp caused a storm on twitter regarding comments made about the NCT.

Well, now someone else is seeking to make money off of the back of the NCT - Richard Godwin, and also essentially "Mumsnet Bumpfest" which features a host of speaker's - some qualified to be taking the stage, and some not so much perhaps. Richard Godwin is a "new parent" and advertises himself as "a special kind of c***" on his twitter feed. Enough said perhaps - especially as it seems he can't bear to think about vaginas  - whether knitted or real, in the context of childbirth.

A senior writer for the Evening Standard (heaven help journalism), this week Richard Godwin wrote an article berating NCT Antenatal Classes, and portraying birth as violent, and a medical event which requires scientific help and as many men there as possible. Clearly Richard is basing the article on his own experiences of birth, because in the births I have attended as a Doula, many of them were not a violent occasion, and most of them happened without a doctor present and without medical science playing a part. Still as one colleague of mine succinctly put it, can you imagine an article in the Daily Mail headlined ""I gave birth and it was all quite straightforward!" - it probably doesn't make for juicy reading.

In an article which I suppose Richard presumed to be "tongue in cheek" and "Blokey" - what he actually achieves is to suggest that women can't do childbirth on their own, and they need a man to come and "save them" during it. He also suggests that the information given out at NCT classes has no bearing on what happens in the hospital and that NCT classes are "worse than useless". Cheers Rich, I'm glad I slog my guts out two to three times a week facilitating classes which are seemingly of no value to people!! I'm sure many of my own class attendees would refute that opinion. It's interesting that Richard formed this opinion having not attended the whole class - perhaps the information he was looking for occurred later in the course.

Here are my own responses to some of Richard's comments, based on my own classes, which may be different to those Richard experienced. You can read the original article here.

1) The NCT is a registered charity, not a private organisation/company. Fees paid for classes go back into the charity - the money is certainly not lining the pockets of those facilitating classes.

2) There are no knitted vaginas in my class. Truth is though, I can understand why there might be in some classes. Even though they have got this far in life, most grown-ups can't handle a picture of a real vagina attached to a women, It freaks them out. Some of the pictures I make available as an option for my clients to look at will attest to that. In the absence of the real thing, some teacher's may choose to use a substitute to demonstrate how childbirth happens.

3) Although granted, some of my clients are middle class, many more are not, they are simply all people, having a baby at the same time, and class doesn't really come into it. Well I certainly don't divide them into "upper/middle/lower" class anymore, especially as the BBC's new class test says that it's a bit more complicated than just a three tier system.

4) "N for natural" - not in my classes. Picture the scene, you ask a woman what her birth plan is... I'm pretty sure that ninety five percent of women are going to tell you that they want their birth to be quick and relatively painless, and they want to remain lucid and in control. Rarely would I have a woman tell me that she wants every intervention under the sun, every pain relief option possible, and she wants to be laid on a bed, strapped to a monitor and have the baby forcibly removed from her. Is this what women want? Most women in my classes certainly don't. I do talk about natural childbirth. However, I also cover assisted birth and caesarean birth as an option in my courses. The amount of women grimacing and crossing their legs at the talk of episiotomies, caesarean incisions and epidural needles in my class would suggest to me that these options are not the first choice for many women.

5) NCT teacher's do not want to keep medical professionals at arms length. Many of us work closely and maintain links with Midwives and Doctors. Midwives are trained medical professionals and feature predominantly in childbirth at most births. Doctor's and science have their place in the birthplace, but they do not control most births. Even in the Consultant Led Unit, most of the care is delivered by midwives. Men may think that medical science is necessary for childbirth, but it really isn't.

6) NCT teacher's don't have an "agenda" for childbirth - well I certainly don't in my classes. I want to support all women in their birth choices and as a Doula have supported parents through everything from planned caesarean births to homebirths. I believe in women's choice, and although I may not always agree with a woman's choice, it is not my role to try and talk her out of her choices, rather, I give parents information to make their own decisions based on all of the available information.

7) Yes, more women used to die in childbirth years ago, due to poor sanitation, higher levels of poverty, and women catching diseases in hospitals. Nowadays, the mortality rates in hospitals are caused by things like contracting diseases in hospital, human error, complications due to caesarean operations, sepsis, thrombosis, and other medical conditions. The rates of women dying at home during childbirth, or during childbirth with just a midwife present are a lot lower than those in hospital. Plus, a previous article Richard wrote said either was pretty much fine.... hypocrisy!!

8) General vagueness - would people like NCT teacher's to be more specific about exactly how tiresome and how painful childbirth can be? Do you want to hear that it might be a three day stint? Most of my clients don't. Do people want me to tell them every single thing that could ever go wrong with every single pregnancy, childbirth and baby related condition, just on the off chance that it might affect someone in the class? When you are catering to the masses, there is a certain amount of "vagueness" that can ensue. Plus, whilst some want every tibit of info, others don't want to hear the warts and all answer - it is hard to cater for everyone.

9) "Instructor's" (or practitioners/facilitators as we prefer to be called) have to have given birth themselves in most cases, thereby ensuring they have probably attended at least their own birth. many others such as myself act as Doula's, or attend women in birth in other roles. NCT Antenatal Teacher's who teach Signature courses have attended a university higher education course with a Diploma or Degree attached to it, so they are extremely qualified to deliver antenatal education, and have gone to university to further their careers like many other professions, and unlike some other organisations which offer antenatal classes.

10) Us practitioner's use both " Brain" and "Brian" as mnemonics  - they are interchangeable, and some people remember one, some the other.

11) It's not "unscientific dumbassery" to imagine that you can control your hormone levels with relaxations such as a foot-rub. Producing Oxytocin happens when you are relaxed, a foot rub is relaxing for some people, for others it's reading a book, watching tv, spending time with their partner - there is lots of research on the hormone Oxytocin. It's the same as saying we can't control adrenaline levels - we can, as we don't walk around in a permanent state of stress and nervousness.

12) It is a shame when parents feel that anything but a natural birth is a failure. In my classes we discuss all of the pros and cons of issues like pain relief, birth choices etc. It doesn't change my life whether a person accept drugs during labour - as long as they are happy with the choice they made.

13) - A good birth or a bad birth is not down to "luck" most of the time - it's down to the choices women make - much evidence attests to this. Often one intervention leads to another. Often a method of pain relief may have an effect on the birth, as may a midwife or doctor and their own beliefs and practices as well as the birth partner's beliefs and experiences. It is not down to luck.

14) "Trust the professionals" Placing your blind trust in anyone in any situation is not always a good idea. It may shock some to hear this, but some health professionals may put hospital policy, or the interests of the hospital in front of women's choice. Birth is a litigious beast, and some professionals may sometimes put their own best interests first, or may not wish to honour a woman's choice for fear of being sued, or ...just in case... shocking I know.... By all means trust professionals, but also ask whose interests they are honouring in some situations.

15) "breastfeeding is lovely"  is it? Is that why we do it - because it's lovely? Or is it because it is in the baby's best interests. Newborns cause sleeplessness, but this is not a reason to give up breastfeeding, especially as there are so many benefits as opposed to formula.

BTW Richard - research shows that a scented candle will do "diddly squat" for some women - perhaps do your research next time before writing such a vitriolic article, which only aims to advertise Mumsnet Bumpfest (how much was the Evening Standard paid for this) and which sets to berate a charity which supports over 100,000 parents each year. It looks like money really is what keeps bad journalism afloat.

As I said before, don't believe everything you read in the news. Us NCT Practitioner's aren't all bad. Lots of us really care passionately about helping parents at such a crucial time in their lives, and not just about how many people we can shock with our knitted vagina's, and breasts!!!

Petiton for Splash Park & Better Facilities in Gadebridge Park, Hemel Hempstead

With summer upon us, and the kids wanting to be outside, it really does make you aware of the facilities which are available in your local town. Whilst other towns have some fantastic council run amenities in the local park, and things for the kids to do, our local town of Hemel Hempstead is lacking a little bit behind other local towns such as Watford and St Albans in the facilities which it offers in it's main park. 

Our local town has a beautiful park, which is a real sprawling open space with a stream running through it. It is very picturesque. It has a children's play area and other facilities including crazy golf, a bowling green, garden games and a skate parl. One thing it is really lacking though, is a Splash Park or Paddling Pool. At present the children cool off in the stream, which is fun, but not completely safe. Another thing it really lacks is decent Toilets and a Cafe Area too. It is such a large space, that a tarmacked area for tennis courts, or ball games could also be a possibility, as could an outside gym, or other amenities to bring it more in-line with other local towns.

Having spent quite a bit of time in the park already this summer thanks to the fantastic weather, the lack of local amenities has been very evident. I have been caught short with the 4 year old needing the toilet and having to use the really basic stinky, dirty facilities with no toilet paper. They could definitely do with some modernisation. I have also been left gasping for a cup of tea and a slice of cake, with nowhere to go and buy one - a revenue really lost for the local council, or even local voluntary groups who could be making money out of the local trade in the park. At present, the ice cream van seems to have the profits from refreshments sewn up and so it would be nice to see a permanent structure there which people could use. The local Inn on the Park in St Albans serves as a Cafe venue, but also has many more uses as a venue for local classes, performances, and a sales venue for local businesses, and and so a Cafe space in the park could really be utilised and would be a much needed service.

Local Dad Ben Armstrong has started a petition to get better facilities in Gadebridge Park Hemel Hempstead, including a splash park and other amenities. I believe that it is important to get behind campaigns like this which will be of huge benefit to the local community, and will also be of benefit to my own children and their friends. I would love for this campaign to have an impact and to bring about a change in the town. A growing number of parents are asking for that change to happen, and so if you agree, please consider signing the petition to improve the local park. Please click here to sign.

What would you like to see in Gadebridge Park?

Summer is Here!

I realise that I am a little late in celebrating the end of term, but it has taken me a week of the holidays to relax after such a manic end of term! The sports days, summer fetes, cake making, meetings, photos, leavers services and everything else school related are all over.

The last day of school happened, and a celebratory paddle in the river to finish it off, and we have got the first week of the holidays out of the way! Eldest finished year two, a lot taller and more knowledgeable than when she started. My little reception girl who started the year not being able to read or write is now sailing into year one and seems to have grown and matured so much over the last year!

I do love everything that happens in the summer term school wise, but it is amazing waking up during the holidays, knowing there is no school run, no after school activities and no deadlines!!

A summer to enjoy ourselves and enjoy the glorious weather! I will be posting about what we have been doing (just in case you're interested!!).

Happy Wedding Anniversary!!

Seven years ago today was our wedding day. To me, it really does seem like yesterday! I remember all of the stress that led up to the big day, the last minute preparations, the floods that prevented some people from attending, and the sunshine, which broke through at the last minute as I arrived at the church.

I remember the lovely speeches, the wonderful company of friends and family, the great wedding dance, and the wedding cake, which I think I cut but never actually got to eat a piece of!!

It was a fantastic day, even though it really did pass by in a blur so happy seven years of marriage to hubby!

New Milestones: Plaiting

Another milestone from eldest this week. As well as being able to tie her shoes, yesterday, eldest mastered the art of plaiting. This has been some time in the making, and she has been desperate to learn how to plait, so I sat down with her and showed her, and after much practice and focus from her, using some coloured cord, she eventually managed it! Another milestone completed and another reminder of how quickly she is growing up! Now she can plait her hair on her own, soon she won't need us at all!!

Silent Sunday 29th June 2014

New Bunk Beds!!!!

It's been six months in the making but this week, the girls finally got their new bunk beds. They have been needing new beds for a while, and youngest especially was desperate for a new bed as she has slept in a cot-bed since birth and now at the age of four, is definitely ready for something else and needs more room to thrash around in her sleep!

We thought it would be relatively simple to order bunk beds but not so, because apparently, white beds are virtually impossible to find. We spent ages looking around, and primarily ordered through Argos/Homebase. They took our order, and then six weeks after waiting for them, they decided they would not be arriving, so this order was cancelled.

After much more searching around, we eventually went for bunk beds from Marks and Spencer, mainly because they offered free delivery and assembly. They were in stock and ordered, then went out of stock, and then finally came back into stock again, and so they were ordered and we waited around a month for them.

Unfortunately, there were issues with the delivery when the beds arrived, because the wrong assembly kit was sent. This resulted in two little girls being exceptionally upset at not getting their bunk beds as promised and nine nights of having to sleep on the floor. The assembly company "Fira Services" were not exceptionally good at recifying this situation, as they took ages to book an assembly crew, and then cancelled on the morning of the delivery for the second time. In the end, after lots of complaining to Marks and Spencer, they sent two assembly men and the bunk beds were finally assembled nine days after the original delivery date.

I would be hesitant to order furniture from Marks and Spencer again as although the customer service was good, they were a bit rubbish at actually rectifying the situation quickly and left it to the third party service company to rectify who were awful and who left the kids without beds and sleeping on the floor.

However, the main thing is that the girls now have their bunk beds and there were many squeals of excitement last night when they walked into the bedroom and saw them. I have never known them so desperate to go to bed!!

New Milestones: Tying Shoelaces

Another milestone was reached this week, as a trip to buy new shoes saw eldest graduating from shoes with velcro, to shoes with laces. Yes she had finally grown out of shoes which were easy to slip on, and so had to choose shoes with a bit more technique to them.  This of course meant that she had to learn to tie her shoe laces for herself.

We used the "bunny ears" method to help her learn to tie them, and it took some practice, but eventually, after a whole afternoon on tying and untying the laces, she got the gist and learned to do them up all by herself!


Another sign that our little girl is growing up!

Catching Up.....

Another small break from blogging has ensued whilst real life has taken over, and I have had work deadlines, and a research module to finish up. 

The kids and I went away for a few days during half term. Part of my ingenious plan was to go and hide ourselves away in a holiday home, to try and get my Research Module work finished which had to be handed in last week. It was my first time of solo parenting for three days with the girls, and I have to say, it was surprisingly easy!! The girls have now happily reached an age where they can be a bit more independent and enjoy playing outside together, and amusing themselves whilst I am able to get on with things for a bit.

I spent the mornings studying, and the afternoons having fun on the beach. The girls really enjoyed the brief spots of sun we were lucky to experience.

I am happy to say that I managed to do solo parenting for three days on my own. I was also able to get all of my work finished and handed in. I am not so happy to say that this trip also involved a smashed laptop screen when youngest got a bit over-zealous and knocked the laptop off of the sofa, leaving me without a laptop to work on :-( (thank goodness for online storage).

Here are some pictures of the girls enjoying the sunshine!!

May School Dayz

It's been a busy week for the girls at school this week. On Tuesday, the children held their annual May Day Celebrations. As a reception class member, youngest was one of the "Assistants" to the May Queen which meant that she got to dress up and wear a pretty dress and have flowers in her hair. This put eldest's nose out of joint as she was left in big standard school uniform. However, she graciously conceded her fate, and both girls performed their dances fantastically. Youngest did a "circle dance" and eldest danced the "Virginia Reel" with her class. She can't wait for next year and she gets to tackle the Myapole - very exciting!!

This week, youngest also had her class assembly. Her class have been learning about Dragons and Castles, which she read out a lovely report about. Considering that aged four, in January, she couldn't even read, I was seriously impressed that she was able to read her report out loud.

I am so glad that both my girls seems to love going to school, and it is nice to be able to go into school to share in their achievements!

Fruit Salad Woes

Eldest came home from school last week very excited as she had created a Fruit Salad "Recipe", which she needed to buy ingredients for, and take to school today in order to make.

Now I must admit, at the time, I smiled and nodded like every dutiful parent does, but I didn't heed massive attention to what the Fruit Salad consisted of, as I assumed that buying ingredients for a Fruit Salad would include a few apples, maybe some banana's and oranges, and perhaps the odd grape or two.

Fast forward to last night when I grabbed the recipe off of the Fridge to take to the shops to buy ingredients, and what a shock I was in for! Apparently, it appears that my daughter has exotic tastes when it comes to making Fruit Salad!

Her "Red" Fruit Salad consisted of Watermelon, Strawberries, Raspberries, Red Grapes and Pommegranate Seeds... not exactly the average seven year old's tastes!!

So, a trip to the supermarket and my purse is £10 lighter for a fruit salad!! Next time I'll be asking her to make something a little cheaper!!

Silent Sunday 19th May 2014

Orange is the New Black

Do you ever watch a TV series and desperately wish that it had turned out differently than it does? Hubby's recent subscription of Netflix  has meant that I started watching "Orange is the New Black" - a Netflix Exclusive. The premise of the series is really interesting - A middle class New Yorker called Piper "self surrenders" herself to prison for a fifteen month sentence to do with drug charges she got herself involved in when she was younger. 

I thought that there was lots of scope for an interesting exploration of how a more affluent, non stereotypical jailbird would cope in a prison environment. I was really looking forward to seeing how the series turned out, and so watched series from the start to the end over the course of a few days.

Instead of a decent plot, what ensued as the series progressed was lots of indulgent nudity, too much unnecessary lady loving and some untoward violence. With a cast featuring some really prominent names, I have to say that I was expecting more. Perhaps I just didn't really "get" it. Maybe I'm just being prudish, but I was really disappointed that the main character turns into a lady loving shallow criminal, rather than maintaining her character.

Has anyone seen Orange is the New Black? What did you think of it?

The Post Easter Post

I have really enjoyed having the girls at home for the past two weeks over the Easter holidays. I have absolutely loved the long lie ins, the not having to get dressed until midday, the being able to be out all afternoon and not be back by three, and the staying up late and not needing to get them in bed by seven. I have also loved the lack of after school clubs and being at home during the early evening to be able to cook a meal and eat as a family. Add to this the chance to spend time with the girls and play, visit new places and discover new things, and eat out in some lovely restaurants, and I would say that our Easter holidays were pretty good. 

The girls went back to school this morning, and I have to say that today, I was totally ready for them to go back. Entertaining children all day is hard work - especially when they are chalk and cheese and want to do different things!! I know that that's part and parcel of being a Mum, but when you start to get a taste of having more free time once they start school, it's always a shock when your time is not your own during the holidays.

The kids being at home has meant that I seem to be making food every two hours, turning on and off various consoles, computer's and TV's constantly, and getting bikes and scooters in and out of the shed all day. Our washing pile has swelled to epic heights as the girls want to change their clothes every five minutes, and I have given up trying to keep on top of the housework because as soon as I tidy a room, my little whirlwinds will have it back to it's previous state in less than two minutes flat. Although it is lovely having them at home. It is also lovely having them back at school!

So far this morning, I have been reminded why having them at school is such a luxury!

• The TV is my own - I can choose whatever channel I want to watch rather than having to mediate over who gets to watch what they want next, and my house is not constantly filled with the sound of children's channels.
• I drank my Tea hot this morning - not cold because I keep getting interrupted
• Oh the silence that fills the house!!! - that blissful silence which I know in years I may come to loathe, but right now, it is so lovely to hear the sound of nothing rather than arguing and constant requests and sniping at each other.  
• I don't have to cook for anyone else today other than me!
• I can access any computer or tablet I want without having to negotiate how long I can use it for before they will want it back. 
• I can use the toilet with the door shut and uninterrupted! - I can even get in the bath without being interrupted too!!
• I can talk on the phone without a little voice trying to grab my attention
• I can get on with work without having to stop every five minutes

Oh yes, it's been a lovely Easter Holiday, but today is a welcome reminder about why having school aged children is lovely too. Now, how long until 3pm????

Hotter Shoes: Review and Giveaway

I must admit that I have never actually heard of Hotter Shoes before, although when I mentioned the brand to my Mother in Law, she was familiar with the name, and it does seems that the brand has actually been around for quite a while - since 1959 in fact. Originally predominantly in the business of slipper production, in the 90's Hotter Shoes found their niche in the market, and developed the "Comfort Concept" - of stylish shoes, with comfort built in. The "Comfort Concept" is thanks to breathable leathers and linings, flexible soles, and air bubbles inside the shoes which actually cushion the feet. These days, Hotter Shoes are in high demand with women (and men) of all ages, and they are achieving fashionable status, having been featured in the likes of Cosmopolitan Magazine.

Hotter Shoes are based in Lancashire, and almost all of their shoes are made there (apart from the canvas and heel styles which are made by small trade partners overseas). With many shoes these days tending to come from abroad, I love the idea of supporting a British Business, making British products, and also providing a British call centre, with staff working around the clock taking calls from customers in the UK, USA and beyond.

Over the last few years, Hotter have branched out from mail order and online, and now occupy a presence on the High Street., with an expansion of over 60 stores throughout the UK.

Recently, a new Hotter Shoes store opened up as a welcome addition in my local town of St Albans, and I was invited to come and have a look around and sample some shoes. I have to say I was a bit apprehensive at the invite, purely because as someone with feet which are a little larger and wider than the average lady, I have notoriously always had trouble buying shoes.

As a teenager, whilst my friends all strutted about with the latest trendy styles on their feet, trying to find fashionable shoes in my size (eight) and in a wider fit was an absolute nightmare. Even up until recently, my choices for buying shoes has always been limited to about three different shops. Even though now thankfully, women's shoes go up to a size nine and sometimes even a ten! I am very rarely able to find the style I want in my size. My shoe shopping experience typically consists of me asking them to show me everything they have in my size in the shop, which is typically about three pairs, and then me making a limited choice between them.

Even so, although I sometimes dread buying shoes, I have always been a bit of a shoe magpie, and I do appreciate slipping my feet into a good pair of shoes or boots. So, not knowing much about the brand, when I was invited to go and have a look at the new Hotter Shoes store, I was fully prepared for the fact that I would not be coming home with a pair of shoes, and actually even expected it.

A shoe shop which appeals to people of all ages, as soon as I entered the Hotter Shoes store in St Albans, I felt completely comfortable and at ease. I absolutely loved the soft furnishings and homely feel of the store. With comfortable chairs, and interesting displays, the shoes and accessories were really complemented by the decor.

As bloggers, we were met by the staff and they soon started showing us around the store and pointing out popular selling styles and new styles just in. I was struck by the friendliness and enthusiasm of the staff, and for a new store, I was also struck by their product knowledge and their commitment to the Hotter Shoes brand. They were all very helpful, and very knowledgeable, and they were also incredibly patient, bringing us endless pairs of shoes in various different sizes and widths to try on. There was lots of time to look around and find the perfect pair of shoes for everyone. We were also offered some yummy food to fill up on whilst we perused the store.

Having had a good look around the shop, I found lots of lovely shoes which I immediately fell in love with, and which looked really stylish, but also practical and comfortable at the same time. I was pleasantly surprised to find that Hotter Shoes actually go up to a size nine, and also go up to a triple "E" width. They also had lots of larger sizes and extra width shoes in stock. I was able to try on lots of different styles and choices, in order to find the size and width which fitted me.

I tried on the "Chantel" style with a small heel in Blue and Red. I absolutely loved the red colour, but felt that I didn't really have anything else in my wardrobe that they would go with, and so opted to get the Blue Chantel style, which I absolutely loved, and which I have worn almost every day since I bought them.

I also tried on the "Donna" style, and went for the Aqua colour rather than the cream colour pictured, as I just absolutely loved them. As someone who doesn't wear heels, I was so impressed with how comfortable the shoes were and how easy they were to walk around in.

I have to say that when I am a complete Hotter convert, and this will be my first port of call the next time I want a new pair of shoes. There is such a wide range of styles and colours, to suit all people, and the service I received was so friendly. I felt completely at ease, and valued, rather than feeling on edge in a shop where I know they may not have anything I can try on or purchase.

I would definitely recommend a visit to Hotter, especially if you do wear a larger size or have wider feet, or if you have trouble wearing heels or are typically used to squeezing your feet into uncomfortable shoes. As soon as you slip on a pair of Hotter Shoes, I can guarantee you will be a Hotter Shoes convert too as the range is so unbelievably comfortable - it's almost like wearing a pair of slippers!!

You can look at the Hotter Shoes store locator to find your nearest store, or browse the range online.

Those nice people at Hotter are offering 10% off shoes on their website to readers of my blog. The code is  PKCTEN and the terms and conditions are:

10% off plus FREE delivery is for first orders only. You are entitled to 10% off the total order value of any full priced items in the Hotter range (excluding shoe care products) plus FREE delivery.  This offer cannot be used in conjunction with any other promotional offer or on Sale or Factory Clearance items and gift vouchers.


They are also offering a competition to readers of my blog to win a Juliet Handbag worth £25. You can enter via the Rafflecopter competition below:

Disclosure: I received an invite to the store, goody bag and pair of shoes to review. All opinions are my own. 

a Rafflecopter giveaway